Treating Arthritis with Occupational Therapy

Patients who suffer from chronic arthritis pain will eventually begin to limit their movements if the pain becomes too severe. Working with an occupational therapist to support and hasten the healing process can improve the physical health of the joints as well as reduce both pain and inflammation. Using OT on a regular basis can improve a patient’s overall outlook on the situation and give them the tools they need to take their life back and begin living again.

OT and Arthritis Pain

Arthritis pain can range from mild to severe, limiting a patient’s movements and causing them to live a more sedentary lifestyle. An occupational therapist will create a therapeutic program that works within the patient’s physical capabilities and can even implement an adaptive device to assist a patient in participating in a daily activity they previously struggled with. The patient will work to rebuild their range of motion, as well as their strength. It allows them to gradually regain their flexibility, while at the same time restore blood flow to the area. As blood flow increases, pain and inflammation will eventually begin to subside.

Additional Benefits of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy offers many benefits that go above and beyond reducing arthritis pain. While it improves range of motion and flexibility, it allows the person the opportunity to become more active. Increased levels of activity will, in turn, improve their mood and outlook on life. The more they are able to move and exercise, the stronger they will become. Individuals with arthritis who remain active are less likely to experience severe chronic pain.

Physical and occupational therapy strengthens the body as a whole and provides arthritic joints with an increase in blood flow that minimizes pain and inflammation. At the same time, therapy offers nutrients and oxygen that helps the joint to heal and become more resistant to injury or damage. With a thorough evaluation, an occupational therapist can help restore physical health to joints, allowing the person to have a higher quality of life.